Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl from Wok Box features tender chicken simmered in aromatic Assamese spices, layered with fresh ginger, garlic, and mustard seeds, served over fluffy steamed rice in a vibrant, flavorful curry that perfectly blends heat and earthiness.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Garlic press (optional)
- Grater (for ginger)
- Large deep skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowls (for spices)
- Measuring spoons
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Strainer (for rice)
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil
- 1 large onion
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 large tomato
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 cups basmati rice
- Water
Ensure you use boneless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, as they absorb the aromatic Assamese spices better than other cuts. Fresh ginger and garlic are essential to achieving the authentic taste, so grate and mince them just before cooking. Mustard oil is key for its pungent aroma, which complements the mustard seeds and enhances the earthiness of the curry. When preparing your basmati rice, rinse it thoroughly and use the appropriate water ratio to achieve fluffy grains. Your Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl from Wok Box copycat menu will burst with vibrant, layered flavors that balance heat and earthiness perfectly.
Instructions
- Wash and rinse basmati rice in a strainer.
- Cook basmati rice with water in a saucepan; set aside.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice onion, mince ginger, mince garlic, and chop green chilies.
- Grate ginger (if not pre-minced).
- Dice tomato.
- Heat mustard oil in a large deep skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them splutter.
- Add onions; sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies; sauté until fragrant.
- Add turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander, and salt; cook spices briefly.
- Add chicken pieces; stir to coat with spices.
- Add diced tomato; cook until tomato softens and oil begins to separate.
- Sprinkle garam masala; mix well.
- Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through and curry thickens.
- Adjust salt and heat as needed.
- Fluff cooked rice and portion into serving bowls.
- Ladle chicken curry over rice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
The Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl from Wok Box copycat menu brings together tender chicken and a rich blend of Assam's signature spices. If you can't find mustard oil, substitute with vegetable oil infused with a pinch of mustard seeds to replicate the flavor profile. Green chilies can be replaced with serrano peppers or jalapenos for comparable heat. When preparing, ensure to gently toast the mustard and cumin seeds to unlock their aroma before adding other ingredients. You can swap basmati rice with jasmine rice if needed, but keep cooking times in mind to maintain the dish's perfect texture.
Tips
Ensure you rinse basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier, non-sticky grains. When heating mustard oil, wait until it smokes lightly to reduce pungency and enhance flavor. Toast mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter to release their essential oils, creating a richer spice base. Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum aroma and always taste your curry before serving to balance salt and heat according to your preference.
Nutritions
The Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl provides a rich source of protein from boneless chicken thighs, essential for muscle repair and growth. Mustard oil and spices like turmeric and cumin seeds deliver healthy fats and potent antioxidants that support inflammation reduction and immune health. Basmati rice supplies complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while fresh ginger, garlic, and green chilies contribute bioactive compounds beneficial for digestion and metabolism. This well-balanced meal offers a flavorful way to meet your nutritional needs with a blend of macronutrients and vitamins.
Storage
Store any leftover Assamese Chicken Curry in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. The chicken curry can be safely kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the cooked basmati rice should also be stored separately in a sealed container. When reheating, ensure the curry is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving to preserve flavor and food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs with skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time to avoid dryness. Replace mustard oil with ghee or vegetable oil if the mustard flavor is too strong or unavailable. To enhance depth, toast whole spices like mustard and cumin seeds before adding other ingredients. Swap basmati rice for fragrant jasmine rice or quinoa to introduce a different texture and nutritional profile.
Allergies
Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl contains mustard seeds and mustard oil, common allergens that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish includes spices like cumin, garlic, ginger, and chili, which can also cause allergies in some people. If you have known allergies to these ingredients, it is important to check with the restaurant or prepare the meal at home to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Assamese Chicken Curry Bowl from Wok Box is loved for its rich blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, capturing the authentic flavors of Assam's traditional cuisine. The dish offers a perfect balance of heat and subtle sweetness, making it a comforting yet exciting meal choice. Its unique combination of ingredients like mustard oil, indigenous herbs, and creamy curry sauce distinguishes it from typical chicken curries. You should try making the copycat recipe to enjoy this flavorful experience at home with fresh, customizable ingredients.